Ailing LBJ steps up to lead Thursday’s S&Ds

A flu-ridden LeBron James still was strong enough to produce another monster all-around performance.

Despite hacking with a chest cold, James produced 31 points, eight rebounds and eight assists to help Miami claim a 98-87 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. James’ big night came only a few hours after he was sent home from the morning shootaround practice with flu-like symptoms.

“A chest cold can get to you at times,” James told the Associated Press. “But I felt like I could help the team.”

Even heavily dosed with medication, James had a strong game that enabled the Heat to claim their second straight victory. And the fact it came without Dwyane Wade it the lineup made it even more special.

“We don’t take his talent for granted, nor do we take Dwyane’s talent or Chris’ talent,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra told the AP. “They’re special players and they can rise to the occasion.”

STUDS

Miami F LeBron James: So much for being sick. Flu-like systems didn’t limit James from filling the stat sheet for 31 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, four steals and three blocked shots in the Heat’s victory over the Lakers.

Houston G Kevin Martin: Went for 32 points, seven rebounds and eight assists and was plus-9 in the Rockets’ overtime victory over New Orleans — their fifth straight triumph.

Houston C Samuel Dalembert: Provided an inside presence in the Rockets’ victory over New Orleans as he was plus-7 with 15 points, 17 rebounds and two blocked shots.

Dallas F Shawn Marion: Notched 22 points and seven rebounds and was a team-best plus-15 in the Mavericks’ victory over Utah.

Los Angeles Lakers F Pau Gasol: Went for 26 points and eight rebounds in the Lakers’ loss at the Heat.

DUDS:

Utah G Devin Harris: Missed all seven of his shots, was limited to one point and was minus-3 in the Jazz’s loss to Dallas.

Los Angeles Lakers F Matt Barnes: Went 1 for 6 from the field with three turnovers and had the worst score among the starters at minus-9 in the Lakers’ loss at Miami.

Dallas G Jason Terry: Spurs Nation’s favorite visiting opponent clanked through a 3-for-14 shooting night with two turnovers and was minus-2 in the Mavericks’ victory at Utah.